Hidden in Budget 2018, Blatant Subterfuge on Political Funding
The proposed amendment to the already repealed FCRA 1976, tucked away in the last page of the Finance Bill, is akin to trying to…
Writing
Columns, essays and commentary by Professor Chhokar.
2018
Jaitley’s Electoral Bonds Are Proof That Political Parties Are Sovereign in India and Not the People
Political parties are often able to exercise supreme power with impunity, even while blatantly defying statutory authorities. A dictionary defines ‘sovereignty’ as “the quality…
Much Ado About Nothing: Electoral Bonds and an Unapologetic Lack of Transparency
2017
Money Alone Can’t Buy Better Policing, What Is Needed Is More Autonomy
The Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF) scheme, recently approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security, has no mention of the men and women who…
Is it not contempt of court?
Independence Day: There has been a steady dip in democratic values – Jagdeep Chhokar
It wasn’t merely independence from subjugation by a foreign power that India achieved 70 years ago. With an independent democracy, its citizens also won…
Partners in deceit
‘Radical Reform’ Sought By Election Commission Is Rather Straightforward
The Election Commission of India has taken a logical and commendable stand in two of its depositions before the department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on…
Financial Bill Reflects Modi Government’s Consistent Opacity on Political Funding
Contrary to the finance minister’s assurance in the Budget speech, amendments to the Finance Bill ensuring anonymity to the donor as well as the…